Hudson Bourbon Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Hudson Whiskey is produced in the state of New York, a few miles from the Hudson River. It is part of a small craft distillery.
Type: The specific product discussed is the Hudson Baby Bourbon.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The bourbon is distilled in pot stills, which allows for more contact with copper, and aged in smaller barrels than the American standard (200 liters). This choice of smaller barrels influences the flavor profile significantly.
Age Statement: No specific age statement is provided, but the craft nature and use of smaller barrels suggest a potentially shorter aging process.
Color, Clarity, and Bottle Design: The bottle is relatively small (35 cl) with a 36% alcohol volume. It features a weather wax cap that is thick and can be challenging to open, indicating a focus on craft presentation.

The Hudson Baby Bourbon does not prominently feature the expected caramel and vanilla notes typical of bourbons. Instead, it offers a unique flavor profile with a bit of fruitiness and a deeper, more complex flavor base.
The oak influence is immediately noticeable, presenting a more aggressive and slightly bitter character compared to bourbons aged in standard-sized barrels.
There are hints of smokiness and a subtle presence of vanilla, attributed to the smaller barrel size and its increased interaction with the spirit.
Overall, it is described as an untypical bourbon with a variety of different flavors, making it an interesting choice for those looking to explore beyond standard bourbon profiles.

The Hudson distillery claims to be the first to legally distill alcohol in New York after Prohibition, marking it as a pioneer in the resurgence of craft distilling in the area.
The use of 100% corn and the necessity of adding enzymes to the mash for starch conversion is highlighted, showcasing the technical aspects of crafting a corn-based bourbon.

The Hudson Whiskey's connection to the state of New York and its proximity to the Hudson River ties it to a specific American locale, emphasizing its craft and local heritage.
Being part of the craft distillery movement, it represents the growing trend of small-scale, artisanal spirit production in the United States.

"This is an untypical bourbon... it has a lot of different flavors; it's not the standard bourbon."
The host appreciates the unique characteristics brought by the smaller barrels and the craft distillation process, highlighting the bourbon's distinctiveness from more traditional offerings.

Hudson Baby Bourbon is a craft spirit from New York, distilled in pot stills and aged in smaller barrels.
It offers a unique flavor profile with less emphasis on caramel and vanilla, featuring oak, a hint of bitterness, and smokiness.
The distillery's history as a post-Prohibition pioneer and its craft approach are significant.
The bourbon is described as untypical, with a complex flavor profile that diverges from standard bourbons.

Whisky Enthusiasts Looking for Unique Profiles: Those interested in exploring bourbons with unconventional flavor profiles will find Hudson Baby Bourbon intriguing.
Craft Spirit Aficionados: Individuals who appreciate the nuances of craft distillation and small-batch production will likely enjoy this bourbon's distinctiveness.
Bourbon Beginners: Newcomers curious about the range of bourbon flavors beyond the classic profiles might find this an interesting, albeit atypical, introduction.